Cavatelli Pesto with Broccoli and Bacon

Try this very quick and excellent pesto dish that combines broccoli and bacon the next time you need a delicious weeknight dinner. Serve while warm with grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese over top.

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 10 mins
• Total Time: 20 mins
• Calories: 359 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 pinch ground black pepper
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, or as needed
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons basil pesto
• 1 cup cavatelli pasta
• 1 large pinch kosher salt
• 2 slices crispy cooked bacon, crumbled

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook cavatelli in the boiling water, stirring occasionally until tender yet firm to the bite, 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 2

Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle with olive oil once hot. Add broccoli and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until tender, 5 to 7 minutes; use a spatula to break any large florets into smaller pieces. Add additional oil if needed and continue cooking broccoli until lightly browned and crisp, 5 to 7 minutes more. Remove from heat.

Step 3

Drain pasta and return it to the pot. Add crumbled bacon, then stir in cooked broccoli and pesto. Mix until evenly coated.